Getting started on Flickr
Whether you're new to the world of online photo-sharing, or just a first-time Flickr user; this guide will get you up and running quickly. Grab a coffee, pull up a chair and dive in.
What is Flickr?
Flickr is a site which enables users to display their photos in a variety of amazing ways. Whilst there are a number of other such photo-sharing sites; Flickr has some interesting features and a large community of passionate supporters.
Where do I begin?
The simplest way to explore Flickr is to use it. Register here for a free account, upload a photo or two and look around.
From here, there are a number of ways to explore the site. Here are a few of my favourites :
- Joining groups : join the SttB group, and search for others.
- Search through keywords you like : to quickly see the latest photos using a particular tag, use a link like this (just change 'exercise' to anything you'd like to browse)
- Add the profiles of your friends, and see what they're uploading : everyone has a slightly different approach to training, and this is a great way to see how others are doing things. My own profile is here.
- Sample some of the many, many plugins for your blog : here are just a few to get started. Yes, there are quite a few of them.
- Take part in a few competitions : there are regular competitions announced over on Straight to the Bar. It's a great way to show other people what you're up to.
How to participate in the Straight to the Bar competitions
If strength-training is your thing, chances are you'll want to take part in the Straight to the Bar competitions. These are a great way to show everyone what your training looks like; whether you're swinging kettlebells on the beach, lifting stones in the backyard or bending a bar on the platform.
To enter any of the competitions (all of which are free), just login to Flickr and :
- upload the photo (or photos) you wish to enter
- add the tag stated on the competition entry page (it'll also appear in the announcement here)
- send the photo to the SttB Flickr Group
- browse the other entries (just replace the word 'sttbwallpaper' for the competition's tag), and get ready to vote
NB : Not sure if you're doing it right? Leave a note on the discussion boards, or talk to one of the group's moderators. They're always happy to help.
